Do I need a better graphics card, CPU, or what?

[eliot22]

I only play two games: Star Wars The Old Republic, and World of Warcraft. So obviously I shouldn't need a super computer here. In both games, sometimes I can play in Ultra graphics settings just fine, but most of the time frames drop real low and I have to run med-high settings. So I'm wondering, what do I need to upgrade to be able to always play with ultra settings?

Here is my current setup:

CPU: Intel i5 2500 (not overclocked)
MoBo: Asus P8Z68-V LE
RAM: 8GB DDR3 1600
Graphics: GTX 460
Hard drive: Samsung SSD 840 EVO
OS: Windows 7 64bit

Thanks.

 

[jeffredo]

Definitely a stronger GPU. There's nothing wrong with your i5 2500 at stock with those games. Do you have a budget in mind (or a preference as to AMD or Nvidia)?

 

[sammy sung]

Even with my gtx295 I max out swtor with 50-60fps. I'd say it's your gpu most likely. As my 295 is on par with the 480, roughly

 

[Thelps]

Ensure you have the latest drivers installed by visiting Nvidia's website and downloading non-Beta drivers.

Check your GPU temperatures during gameplay by using GPU-Z, MSI-Afterburner, HW Monitor or a similar program.

You can configure your GPU via GeForce Experience. It might be best to try setting all options to Let Application Decide.

You can also check the GPU for abnormalities via Control Panel > System > Device Manager > Display Adapters. Ensure it's set to 'Enabled' by right-clicking on it.

 

[skit75]

As mentioned, just a GPU upgrade will do it.

 

[eliot22]

Thanks for the replies. I assumed it was the GPU, but I wanted to make sure before I shelled out the cash.

I have been thinking about going with a GTX 760. You think that will do the trick?

 

[jeffredo]

Absolutely - you'll notice a pretty large difference between your current card and a GTX 760. Went from a GTX 460 to a GTX 670 a few years ago - huge increase. The GTX 760 is about the same as that card in performance.

 

[coozie7]

Broadly agree but WoW is notoriously CPU hungry and can get bogged down in large raids without a REALLY fast processor, so I'll suggest you look into adding a better cooler and delving into the dark art of overclocking a well.